Skin-to-skin care garment

ABSTRACT

A convertible garment for skin-to-skin care of an infant, the garment including a flexible panel having a panel width disposed between panel first and second ends which removably couple to one another to dispose the panel width about a torso of a wearer to define an interior space between a panel internal surface and a front torso portion of the wearer, whereby the interior space can be configured to receive an infant; a first support element coupled to the panel proximate a panel first side top portion; and a second support element coupled to the panel proximate a panel second side top portion; whereby the first and second support elements can be configured to couple to one another to support the panel about the torso of the wearer.

This U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application is a continuation-in-partof U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/504,087, filed Oct. 1,2014, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.61/960,996, filed Oct. 2, 2013, each hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is a growing body of evidence demonstrating that skin-to-skincontact, also known as “kangaroo care,” practiced immediately afterbirth and beyond, may offer multiple medical benefits for both the careprovider and the baby. Skin-to-skin contact is a holding technique wherethe care provider positions a baby, wearing only a diaper, against theirbare chest. Full chest-to-chest contact between the care provider andthe baby may stimulate a hormonal cascade resulting in the production ofoxytocin within the brain of the baby. Oxytocin is a neuromodulatorwhich may provide a sense of calm, happiness, and contentment byinhibiting the release of one or more stress response hormones, therebyprohibiting an increase in heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure,and growth or recovery delays in the baby. Simply stated, skin-to-skincontact can minimize stress responses in the baby.

Additional advantages of skin-to-skin contact for the baby may include:accelerated brain development, synchronization of heart rate andbreathing, regulation of body temperature, increased oxygenation,enhanced quality of sleep, increased immunity, improved digestion,amplified weight gain, greater calmness, diminished crying, or the like,or combinations thereof.

There may be advantages for the mother from skin-to-skin contact aswell, often reducing the occurrence of postpartum depression andincreasing the mother's breast milk supply, subsequently resulting in ahigher rate of success with breastfeeding. In addition to the positivephysiological effects, skin-to-skin contact may aid in creating animportant bond between the care provider and the baby.

Recent studies report long-term positive effects of skin-to-skin contactfor the infant, including a greater head circumference and significantimprovement in motor and cognitive development at one year of age.Heightened parent sensitivity and infant interaction through six monthsof age was also observed.

Accordingly, skin-to-skin contact may be promoted in an Operating Room(OR), for example after an infant is delivered via a Cesarean section(C-section) procedure, or in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).However, there may be perceived barriers to the implementation ofskin-to-skin contact, including a lack of protocols or guidelines forsafe implementation that allows for a comfortable and private experiencefor the provider and the infant.

Thus, there exists a need for a garment which safely and convenientlyfacilitates skin-to-skin contact, especially for use in an OR or NICU.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A broad object of the invention can be to provide a convertible garmentfor skin-to-skin care of an infant, the garment including a flexiblepanel having a panel width disposed between panel first and second endswhich removably couple to one another to dispose the panel width about atorso of a wearer to define an interior space between a panel internalsurface and a front torso portion of the wearer, whereby the interiorspace can be configured to receive an infant; a first support elementcoupled to the panel proximate a panel first side top portion; and asecond support element coupled to the panel proximate a panel secondside top portion; whereby the first and second support elements can beconfigured to couple to one another to support the panel about the torsoof the wearer.

Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a method ofmaking a convertible garment for skin-to-skin care of an infant, themethod including providing a flexible panel having a panel widthdisposed between panel first and second ends which removably couple toone another to dispose the panel width about a torso of a wearer todefine an interior space between a panel internal surface and a fronttorso portion of the wearer, whereby the interior space can beconfigured to receive an infant; coupling a first support element to thepanel proximate a panel first side top portion; and coupling a secondsupport element to the panel proximate a panel second side top portion;whereby the first and second support elements can be configured tocouple to one another to support the panel about the torso of thewearer.

Another broad object of the invention can be to provide a method ofusing a convertible garment for skin-to-skin care of an infant, themethod including obtaining the garment comprising a flexible panelhaving a panel width disposed between panel first and second ends, afirst support element coupled to the panel proximate a panel first sidetop portion, and a second support element coupled to the panel proximatea panel second side top portion; removably coupling the panel first andsecond ends to one another to dispose the panel width about a torso of awearer to define an interior space between a panel internal surface anda front torso portion of the wearer, the interior space configured toreceive an infant; and coupling the first and second support elements toone another to support the panel about the torso of the wearer.

Naturally, further objects of the invention are disclosed throughoutother areas of the specification, drawings, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a front view illustration of a method of using a particularembodiment of the convertible garment worn in a garment firstconfiguration.

FIG. 1B is a front view illustration of a method of using a particularembodiment of the convertible garment worn in a garment firstconfiguration.

FIG. 1C is a side view illustration of a method of using a particularembodiment of the convertible garment worn in a garment firstconfiguration.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the convertiblegarment in a garment first configuration.

FIG. 3 is a back view of a particular embodiment of the convertiblegarment in a garment first configuration.

FIG. 4 is a first side view of a particular embodiment of theconvertible garment in a garment first configuration.

FIG. 5 is a second side view of a particular embodiment of theconvertible garment in a garment first configuration.

FIG. 6 is a top view of a particular embodiment of the convertiblegarment in a garment first configuration.

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of a particular embodiment of the convertiblegarment in a garment first configuration.

FIG. 8A is a front view illustration of a method of using a particularembodiment of the convertible garment worn in a garment secondconfiguration.

FIG. 8B is a side view illustration of a method of using a particularembodiment of the convertible garment worn in a garment secondconfiguration.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a particular embodiment of the convertiblegarment in a garment second configuration.

FIG. 10 is a back view of a particular embodiment of the convertiblegarment in a garment second configuration.

FIG. 11 is a first side view of a particular embodiment of theconvertible garment in a garment second configuration.

FIG. 12 is a second side view of a particular embodiment of theconvertible garment in a garment second configuration.

FIG. 13 is a top view of a particular embodiment of the convertiblegarment in a garment second configuration.

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of a particular embodiment of the convertiblegarment in a garment second configuration.

FIG. 15 is an unfurled front view of a particular embodiment of theconvertible garment.

FIG. 16 is an unfurled back view of a particular embodiment of theconvertible garment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, FIG. 1C, FIG. 8A, and FIG.8B, which illustrate methods of using a particular embodiment of theconvertible garment (1) for skin-to-skin contact between a wearer (2)and an infant (3). The wearer (2) can wear the garment (1) about a torso(4), the garment (1) including (i) a flexible panel (5) having a panelwidth (6) configured to dispose about the torso (4) of the wearer (2) todefine an interior space (7) between a panel internal surface (8) and afront torso portion (9) of the wearer (2) and (ii) a pair of first andseconds support elements (10)(11) each coupled to the panel (5)proximate corresponding panel first and second side top portions(12)(13), the pair of first and second support elements (10)(11)configured to couple to one another to support the panel (5) about thetorso (4) of the wearer (2). Additionally, the wearer (2) of the garment(1) can insert an infant (3) into the interior space (7) to engage theinfant (3) with the front torso portion (9) of the wearer (2) forskin-to-skin care of the infant (3).

As used herein, the term “torso” means the trunk of a human body, thetrunk excluding the head, neck, and limbs. The torso (4) can be dividedinto a front torso portion (9) and a back torso portion, the front torsoportion (9) encompassing the anterior portion of the trunk of the humanbody, including the chest and the abdomen, the back torso portionencompassing the posterior portion of the trunk of the human body,including the back. Additionally, the torso (4) can be divided into anupper torso portion (14) and a lower torso portion (15), the upper torsoportion (14) extending from about the bustline upward and the lowertorso portion (15) extending from about the bustline downward.

As used herein, the term “infant” means a preterm neonate, a termneonate, or any animal having dimensions similar to a neonate.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1 A through FIG. 7, the wearer (2) canwear the garment (1) in a garment first configuration (16), whereby thefirst and second support elements (10)(11) couple to one another about aneck (17) of the wearer (2). In the garment first configuration (16),the infant (3) can be received within the interior space (7) to disposethe infant (3) in a generally vertical position (18) in relation to thefront torso portion (9) of the wearer (2) for skin-to-skin care of theinfant (3). As an illustrative example, the garment first configuration(16) may be useful when the wearer (2) is reclining or lying in a supineposition in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), whereby the garment(1) can facilitate skin-to-skin care of the infant (3) in the NICU.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 8A through FIG. 14, the wearer (2) canwear the garment (1) in a garment second configuration (19), whereby thefirst and second support elements (10)(11) couple to one another about ashoulder (20) of the wearer (2). In the garment second configuration(19), the infant (3) can be received within the interior space (7) todispose the infant (3) in a generally horizontal or diagonal position(21) in relation to the front torso portion (9) of the wearer (2) forskin-to-skin care of the infant (3). As an illustrative example, thegarment second configuration (19) may be useful when the wearer (2) isreclining or lying in a supine position during a Cesarean section(C-section) procedure in an Operating Room (OR), whereby the garment (1)can be positioned to allow exposure of the abdomen (22) of the wearer(2) while facilitating skin-to-skin care of the infant (3) in the OR.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 16, the garment (1) caninclude a flexible panel (5) having a panel width (6) disposed betweenpanel first and second ends (23)(24) configured to removably couple toone another to dispose the panel width (6) about a torso (4) of a wearer(2). A panel internal surface (25) and a front torso portion (9) of thewearer (2) can define an interior space (7) configured to receive aninfant (3).

The panel (5) can have any of a numerous and wide variety of dimensionalrelations, including the panel width (6) and a panel length (26), whichallow the panel (5) to be disposed about the torso (4) of the wearer (2)to define the interior space (7) which can receive the infant (3). As toparticular embodiments, the panel (5) can have dimensional relationsconfigured to be worn about the torso (4) of an extra-small, small,medium, large, extra-large, or any size post-partum female wearer (2).As to other particular embodiments, the panel (5) can have dimensionalrelations configured to be worn about the torso (4) of an extra-small,small, medium, large, extra-large, or any size male wearer (2).

Again referring primarily to FIG. 1 A through FIG. 16, the panel firstand second ends (23)(24) can removably couple to one another to disposethe panel width (6) about the torso (4) of the wearer (2). As toparticular embodiments, a pair of releasably matable fastener elements(27) can be coupled one each to panel first and second end portions(28)(29) to facilitate removable coupling of the panel first and secondends (23)(24). As non-limiting examples, the pair of releasably matablefastener elements (27) can include releasably matable adherentfasteners, releasably matable hook and loop fasteners, releasablymatable mechanical fasteners, or the like, or combinations thereof Asshown in the illustrative examples of the Figures, a particularembodiment of the garment (1) can have releasably matable mechanicalfasteners configured as a pair of releasably matable snap elements (30),disposed one each on a panel first end portion internal surface (31) anda panel second end portion external surface (32), whereby matablefastening of the pair of releasably matable snap elements (30) canremovably couple the panel first and second ends (23)(24) in overlappingengagement to secure the panel width (6) about the torso (4) of thewearer (2).

The removable coupling of the panel first and second ends (23)(24) canallow relatively easy access to the torso (4) of the wearer (2), whichmay be useful for positioning the infant (3) in skin-to-skin contactwith the front torso portion (9) of the wearer (2). Additionally, theremovable coupling of the panel first and second ends (23)(24) can allowrelatively easy access to the infant (3) received within the interiorspace (7) between the panel internal surface (8) and the front torsoportion (9) of the wearer (2). The relatively easy access to both thetorso (4) of the wearer (2) and the infant (3) received within theinterior space (7) may be useful under conditions requiring theplacement of one or more medical devices on the torso (4) of the wearer(2), on the infant (3), or both, such as in the OR or the NICU.

Again referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 16, as to particularembodiments, a plurality of pairs of releasably matable fastenerelements (27) can be coupled to the panel first and second end portions(28)(29) in spaced apart relation along corresponding panel first andsecond end portion lengths (33)(34) to provide a corresponding pluralityof fastenable areas (35) along the panel first and second end portionlengths (33)(34). As shown in the illustrative examples of the Figures,three pairs of releasably matable snap elements (30) can be coupledalong the panel first and second end portion lengths (33)(34) ingenerally vertically spaced apart relation such that a first pair ofreleasably matable snap elements (36) can be coupled one each proximatecorresponding panel first and second end portion top portions (37)(38),a second pair of releasably matable snap elements (39) can be coupledone each proximate corresponding panel first and second end portionmedial portions (40)(41), and a third pair of releasably matable snapelements (42) can be coupled one each proximate corresponding panelfirst and second end portion bottom portions (43)(44). Accordingly, thepanel first and second end portions (28)(29) can be fastened togetherproximate panel first and second end portion top, medial, and bottomportions (37)(38)(40)(41)(43)(44). However, the invention need not be solimited, as any number of pairs of releasably matable fastener elements(27) can be coupled to the panel first and second end portions (28)(29)in any spaced apart relation along corresponding panel first and secondend portion lengths (33)(34) to provide a corresponding plurality offastenable areas (35) along the panel first and second end portionlengths (33)(34), depending upon the application.

The plurality of fastenable areas (35) along the panel first and secondend portion lengths (33)(34) can allow localized access to the torso (4)of the wearer (2), which may be useful for positioning the infant (3) inskin-to-skin contact with the front torso portion (9) of the wearer (2).Additionally, the plurality of fastenable areas (35) along the panelfirst and second end portion lengths (33)(34) can allow localized accessto the infant (3) received within the interior space (7) between thepanel internal surface (8) and the front torso portion (9) of the wearer(2). The localized access to both the torso (4) of the wearer (2) andthe infant (3) received within the interior space (7) may be usefulunder conditions requiring the placement of one or more medical deviceson the torso (4) of the wearer (2), on the infant (3), or both, such asin the OR or the NICU.

As to particular embodiments, the pair of releasably matable fastenerelements (27) can be configured to provide adjustable removable couplingof the panel first and second ends (23)(24) to adjust the panel width(6) which disposes about the torso (4) of the wearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the pair of releasably matable fastenerelements (27) can be configured to matably engage along any portion ofthe length of each releasably matable fastener element (27). Forexample, the pair of releasably matable fastener elements (27) can beconfigured as a pair of releasably matable hook and loop fastener stripswhich can matably engage along any portion of the length of each hookand loop fastener strip.

Again referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 16, as to otherparticular embodiments, a plurality of pairs of releasably matablefastener elements (27) can provide adjustable removable coupling of thepanel first and second ends (23)(24) to adjust the panel width (6) whichdisposes about the torso (4) of the wearer (2). As shown in the examplesof the Figures, the pair of releasably matable fastener elements (27)can be configured as a plurality of pairs of releasably matable fastenerelements (27) coupled to the panel first and second end portions(28)(29) in generally horizontally spaced apart relation along a portionof the panel width (6) proximate the panel first and second end portions(28)(29). To dispose a lesser panel width (6) about the torso (4) of thewearer (2), a pair a releasably matable fastener elements (27) whichdispose a lesser distance apart along the panel width (6) between thepanel first and second end portions (28)(29) can be matingly fastened,whereby a greater portion of the panel first and second end portions(28)(29) overlappingly engage along the panel width (6).Correspondingly, to dispose a greater panel width (6) about the torso(4) of the wearer (2), a pair a releasably matable fastener elements(27) which dispose a greater distance apart along the panel width (3)between the panel first and second end portions (28)(29) can be matinglyfastened, whereby a lesser portion of the panel first and second endportions (28)(29) overlappingly engage along the panel width (6).

Again referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 16, as to particularembodiments, the panel (5) can have a resiliently stretchable panel topedge (45) configured to resiliently stretch about an upper torso portion(14) of the wearer (2). As an illustrative example, at least a portionof the panel top edge (45) can include a cinching element (47)configured to adjustably cinch the panel top edge (45) about the uppertorso portion (14) of the wearer (2). Non-limiting examples of cinchingelements (47) can include cinchable materials including or consistingof: elastic, shock cord, drawstring, or the like, or combinationsthereof.

Again referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 16, as to particularembodiments, the panel (5) can have a resiliently stretchable panelbottom edge (48) configured to resiliently stretch about a lower torsoportion (15) of the wearer (2). As an illustrative example, at least aportion of the panel bottom edge (48) can include a cinching element(47), as described above, configured to adjustably cinch the panelbottom edge (48) about the lower torso portion (15) of the wearer (2).

The garment (1) can further include a pair of first and second supportelements (10)(11) each coupled to the panel (5) proximate correspondingpanel first and second side top portions (12)(13). The first and secondsupport elements (10)(11) can be configured to couple to one another tosupport the panel (5) about the torso (4) of the wearer (2). As toparticular embodiments, the first and second support elements (10)(11)can be configured to removably couple to one another to support thepanel (5) about the torso (4) of the wearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the first and second support elements(10)(11) can be configured as flexible first and second support elements(10)(11) having corresponding flexible first and second support elementlengths (50)(51) disposed between corresponding first and second supportelement first ends (52)(53) and corresponding first and second supportelement second ends (54)(55). The first and second support element firstends (52)(53) can each couple to the panel (5) proximate correspondingpanel first and second side top portions (12)(13). As to particularembodiments, the first and second support element first ends (52)(53)can be fixedly coupled to the corresponding panel first and second sidetop portions (12)(13), for example by sewing or stitching. The flexiblefirst and second support elements (10)(11) can be configured toremovably couple to one another along portions of corresponding flexiblefirst and second support element lengths (50)(51) to support the panel(5) about the torso (4) of the wearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the flexible first and second supportelements (10)(11) can removably couple to one another proximatecorresponding first and second support element second ends (54)(55). Asan illustrative example, the first and second support element secondends (54)(55) can each have one of a pair of releasably matable fastenerelements (27) which, upon matable engagement, can removably couple thefirst and second support element second ends (54)(55) to one another.

As to other particular embodiments, the flexible first and secondsupport elements (10)(11) can be configured to adjustably removablycouple to one another along any portion of corresponding flexible firstand second support element lengths (50)(51) distal from correspondingfirst and second support element first ends (52)(53). For example, theflexible first and second support elements (10)(11) can be configured asfirst and second straps (56)(57) which can adjustably removably coupleto one another along any portion of corresponding first and second straplengths (58)(59) distal from corresponding first and second strap firstends (60)(61) by tying. Accordingly, the coupled first and second straplength (62) between the first and second strap first ends (60)(61) canbe adjustable. To achieve a lesser coupled first and second strap length(62) between the first and second strap first ends (60)(61), the firstand second strap lengths (58)(59) can be tied together at lesserdistances from the corresponding first and second strap first ends(60)(61). Correspondingly, to achieve a greater coupled first and secondstrap length (62) between the first and second strap first ends(60)(61), the first and second strap lengths (58)(59) can be tiedtogether at greater distances from the corresponding first and secondstrap first ends (60)(61).

As to particular embodiments, the flexible first and second supportelements (10)(11) can be configured as one continuous support element,whereby the first and second support element first ends (52)(53) caneach couple to the panel (5) proximate corresponding panel first andsecond side top portions (12)(13) and the first and second supportelement second ends (54)(55) can be connected to one another to provideone continuous support element extending between the first and secondsupport element first ends (52)(53). As to particular embodiments, thecontinuous support element can be formed from a resiliently stretchablematerial which can allow adjustment of a continuous support elementlength between the first and second support element first ends (52)(53).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 14, the first and secondsupport elements (10)(11) can couple to one another about the uppertorso portion (14) of the wearer (2) to support the panel (5) about thetorso (4) of the wearer (2).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 7, as to particularembodiments, the first and second support elements (10)(11) can coupleto one another about a neck (17) of the wearer (2). Correspondingly, thewearer (2) can wear the garment (1) in a garment first configuration(16), whereby the first and second support elements (10)(11) couple toone another about the neck (17) of the wearer (2). In the garment firstconfiguration (16), the infant (3) can be received within the interiorspace (7) to dispose the infant (3) in a generally vertical position(18) in relation to the front torso portion (9) of the wearer (2) forskin-to-skin care of the infant (3). However, the invention need not beso limited, as the infant (3) can be disposed in any position when thegarment (1) is worn in the garment first configuration (16) tofacilitate skin-to-skin contact between the wearer (2) and the infant(3).

As an illustrative example, the garment first configuration (16) may beuseful when the wearer (2) is reclining or lying in a supine position inthe NICU, whereby the garment (1) can facilitate skin-to-skin care ofthe infant (3) in the NICU.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 8A through FIG. 14, as to particularembodiments, the first and second support elements (10)(11) can coupleto one another about a shoulder (20) of the wearer (2). Correspondingly,the wearer (2) can wear the garment (1) in a garment secondconfiguration (19), whereby the first and second support elements(10)(11) couple to one another about the shoulder (20) of the wearer(2). In the garment second configuration (19), the infant (3) can bereceived within the interior space (7) to dispose the infant (3) in agenerally horizontal or diagonal position (21) in relation to the fronttorso portion (6) of the wearer (2) for skin-to-skin care of the infant(3). However, the invention need not be so limited, as the infant (3)can be disposed in any position when the garment (1) is worn in thegarment second configuration (19) to facilitate skin-to-skin contactbetween the wearer (2) and the infant (3).

As an illustrative example, the garment second configuration (19) may beuseful when the wearer (2) is reclining or lying in a supine positionduring a C-section procedure in the OR, whereby the garment (1) can bepositioned to allow exposure of the abdomen (22) of the wearer (2) whilefacilitating skin-to-skin care of the infant (3) in the OR. The garment(1) can be positioned on the torso (4) of the wearer (2) such that thegarment (1) remains above an operating curtain and, correspondingly, outof a sterile field, during and after the C-section procedure.

As to particular embodiments, the garment second configuration (19) canbe worn such that the first and second support elements (10)(11) coupleto one another about the right shoulder (63) of the wearer (2), forexample when localized access via a right portion of the torso (4) ofthe wearer (2) may be useful. Alternately, the garment secondconfiguration (19) can be worn such that the first and second supportelements (10)(11) couple to one another about the left shoulder (64) ofthe wearer (2), for example when localized access via a left portion ofthe torso (4) of the wearer (2) may be useful.

As to particular embodiments, the first and second support element firstends (52)(53) can removably couple to one another to facilitatedisposing the panel width (6) about the torso (4) of the wearer (2). Asto particular embodiments, a pair of releasably matable fastenerelements (27) can be coupled one each to first and second supportelement first end portions (69)(70) to facilitate removable coupling ofthe first and second support element first ends (52)(53), as describedabove for the one or more pairs of releasably matable fastener elements(27) which can be coupled one each to panel first and second endportions (28)(29) to facilitate removable coupling or adjustableremovable coupling of the panel first and second ends (23)(24).

As to particular embodiments, the first and second support elements(10)(11) can further include a cushioning element which compressinglyengages the wearer (2). As an illustrative example, a cushioning elementcan include a compressible element, such as batting, foam, rubber, film,fabric, or the like, or combinations thereof.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 16, as to particularembodiments, one or more auxiliary elements (65) can be incorporatedinto the panel (5). As an illustrative example, the panel (5) caninclude a pair of slits (66), each of which communicates between thepanel internal surface (8) and a panel external surface (67). The slit(66) can allow localized access to the torso (4) of the wearer (2),which may be useful under conditions requiring the placement of one ormore devices on the torso (4) of the wearer (2). As an illustrativeexample, the slit (66) can allow localized access to the breast of awearer (2) to facilitate the pumping of breast milk using breast pumps(68) while providing skin-to-skin care of the infant (3) (as shown inthe example of FIG. 1B). Additionally, the slit (66) can allow localizedaccess to the infant (3) received within the interior space (7) betweenthe panel internal surface (8) and the front torso portion (9) of thewearer (2). As to particular embodiments, each slit (66) can be fastenertogether by a pair of releasably matable fastener elements (27), asdescribed above, coupled one each to opposing portions of the panel (5)proximate the slit (66).

As to particular embodiments, one or more ancillary elements can becoupled to the panel external surface (67). As an illustrative example,an ancillary element can include material coupled to the panel externalsurface (67) to form a pouch, a pocket, or the like. Additionally,ancillary elements can include buttons, bows, beads, appliques, or thelike, or combinations thereof.

A method of making a convertible garment (1) for skin-to-skin care of aninfant (3) can include providing a flexible panel (5) having a panelwidth (6) disposed between panel first and second ends (23)(24) whichremovably couple to one another to dispose the panel width (6) about atorso (4) of a wearer (2) to define an interior space (7) between apanel internal surface (8) and a front torso portion (9) of the wearer(2), whereby the interior space (7) can be configured to receive aninfant (3); coupling a first support element (10) to the panel (5)proximate a panel first side top portion (12); and coupling a secondsupport element (11) to the panel (5) proximate a panel second side topportion (13); whereby the first and second support elements (10)(11) canbe configured to couple to one another to support the panel (5) aboutthe torso (4) of the wearer (2). In a garment first configuration (16),the first and second support elements (10)(11) can be configured tocouple to one another about a neck (17) of the wearer (2). In a garmentsecond configuration (19), the first and second support elements(10)(11) can be configured to couple to one another about a shoulder(20) of the wearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the method of making the garment (1) canfurther include providing the panel (5) with a resiliently stretchablepanel top edge (45) configured to resiliently stretch about an uppertorso portion (14) of the wearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the method of making the garment (1) canfurther include providing the panel (5) with a resiliently stretchablepanel bottom edge (48) configured to resiliently stretch about a lowertorso portion (15) of the wearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the method of making the garment (1) canfurther include coupling a pair of releasably matable fastener elements(27) one each to panel first and second end portions (28)(29) tofacilitate removable coupling of the panel first and second ends(23)(24). As to particular embodiments, the method can further includecoupling a plurality of pairs of releasably matable fastener elements(27) to the panel first and second end portions (28)(29) in spaced apartrelation along corresponding panel first and second end portion lengths(33)(34) to provide a corresponding plurality of fastenable areas (35)along the panel first and second end portion lengths (33)(34).

As to particular embodiments, the method of making the garment (1) canfurther include configuring the pair of releasably matable fastenerelements (27) to provide adjustable removable coupling of the panelfirst and second ends (23)(24). As to particular embodiments, the methodcan further include coupling a plurality of pairs of releasably matablefastener elements (27) to the panel first and second end portions(28)(29) in spaced apart relation along the panel width (6) tofacilitate adjustment of the panel width (6) which disposes about thetorso (4) of the wearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the method of making the garment (1) canfurther include configuring the first and second support elements(10(11) as flexible first and second support elements (10)(11) havingcorresponding flexible first and second support elements lengths(50)(51) disposed between corresponding first and second support elementfirst ends (52)(53) and corresponding first and second support elementsecond ends (54)(55); coupling the first and second element first ends(52)(53) each to the panel (5) proximate corresponding panel first andsecond side top portions (12)(13); and configuring the flexible firstand second support elements (10)(11) to couple to one another alongportions of corresponding flexible first and second support elementlengths (50)(51) to support the panel (5) about the torso (4) of thewearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the method of making the garment (1) canfurther include configuring the flexible first and second supportelements (10)(1) as first and second straps (56)(57) which adjustablycouple to one another along any portion of corresponding first andsecond strap lengths (58)(59) distal from corresponding first and secondstrap first ends (52)(53) by tying.

As to particular embodiments, the method of making the garment (1) canfurther include disposing at least one slit (66) in the panel (5),whereby the slit (66) communicates between the panel internal surface(8) and a panel external surface (67).

As to particular embodiments, the panel (5) can be formed from anyflexible material sufficient to be worn about a wearer (2) and disposedabout an infant (3). The panel (5) can be entirely formed of the samematerial, or alternatively, various portions of the panel (5) can beformed from different materials. By way of non-limiting example, thematerial can be soft, breathable, moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial,natural, synthetic, odor-resistant, or machine washable and can includeor consist of cotton, linen, polyester, leather, suede, vinyl, Lycra,Spandex, wool, rayon, viscose, or the like, or combinations thereof. Asto particular embodiments, the material can be a stretchable fabric.

As to particular embodiments, the flexible first and second supportelements (10)(11) can be formed from any flexible material sufficient tobe worn about a wearer (2) to support the panel (5) about a torso (4) ofthe wearer (2). The flexible first and second support elements (10)(11)can be entirely formed of the same material, or alternatively, variousportions of the flexible first and second support elements (10)(11) canbe formed from different materials. By way of non-limiting example, thematerial can be soft, breathable, moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial,natural, synthetic, odor-resistant, or machine washable and can includeor consist of cotton, linen, polyester, leather, suede, vinyl, Lycra,Spandex, wool, rayon, viscose, or the like, or combinations thereof Asto particular embodiments, the material can be a stretchable fabric.

As to particular embodiments, the panel (5) and the flexible first andsecond support elements (10)(11) can be formed from the same material ora substantially similar material.

As to particular embodiments, the first and second support elements(10)(11) can be fixedly coupled to the corresponding panel first andsecond side top portions (12)(13) by an adherent layer. As used herein,the term “adherent layer” broadly encompasses at least one, one or more,or a combination of a wide variety of adhesives or mechanical fasteners.While the illustrative example of the adherent layer shown in theFigures depicts a mechanical fastener configured as stitching,embodiments can have any suitable adherent layer sufficient to fixedlycouple the first and second support elements (10)(11) to thecorresponding panel first and second side top portions (12)(13).

Exemplary adhesives include, as illustrative examples: non-reactiveadhesives including drying adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives,contact adhesives, and hot adhesives; reactive adhesives includingone-part adhesives and multi-part adhesives; natural adhesives;synthetic adhesives; or the like, or combinations thereof. Exemplarymechanical fasteners include, as illustrative examples: annularelements, buckles, buttons, clamps, clips, grommets, hook-and-eyeclosures, mated hook and loop fasteners, pins, rivets, snap fasteners,staples, stitches, straps, tape, zippers, or the like, or combinationsthereof.

As to other particular embodiments, the first and second supportelements (10)(11) and the panel (5) can be formed as a one-piece garment(1).

As to particular embodiments, elements of the garment (1) can beproduced from any of a wide variety of processes depending upon theapplication, such as fabrication, as one piece or assembled from aplurality of pieces into an embodiment of the garment (1) or provided asa plurality of pieces for assembly into an embodiment of the garment(1).

A method of using a convertible garment (1) for skin-to-skin care of aninfant (3) can include obtaining the garment (1) comprising a flexiblepanel (5) having a panel width (6) disposed between panel first andsecond ends (23)(24); a first support element (10) coupled to the panel(5) proximate a panel first side top portion (12); and a second supportelement (11) coupled to the panel (5) proximate a panel second side topportion (13). The method can further include removably coupling thepanel first and second ends (23)(24) to one another to dispose the panelwidth (6) about a torso (4) of a wearer (2) to define an interior space(7) between a panel internal surface (8) and a front torso portion (9)of the wearer (2), whereby the interior space (7) can be configured toreceive an infant (3). The method can further include coupling the firstand second support elements (10)(11) to one another to support the panel(5) about the torso (4) of the wearer (2).

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include insertingthe infant (3) into the interior space (7) to engage the infant (3) withthe front torso portion (9) of the wearer (2). As to particularembodiments, engaging the infant (3) with the front torso portion (9) ofthe wearer (2) can provide skin-to-skin care of the infant (3).

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include couplingthe first and second support elements (10)(11) to one another about aneck (17) of the wearer (2) to configure the garment (1) in a garmentfirst configuration (16). The method can further include inserting theinfant (3) into the interior space (7) to dispose the infant (3) in agenerally vertical position (18) in relation to the front torso portion(9) of the wearer (2) for skin-to-skin care of the infant (3).

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include couplingthe first and second support elements (10)(11) to one another about ashoulder (20) of the wearer (2) to configure the garment (1) in agarment second configuration (19). The method can further includeinserting the infant (3) into the interior space (7) to dispose theinfant (3) in a generally horizontal or diagonal position (21) inrelation to the front torso portion (9) of the wearer (2) forskin-to-skin care of the infant (3).

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include disposing abreast pump (68) through a slit (66) which communicates between thepanel internal surface (8) and a panel external surface (67) to engagethe breast pump (68) with a breast of the wearer (2).

As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts ofthe present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways. Theinvention involves numerous and varied embodiments of a garment andmethods for making and using such garments including the best mode.

As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the inventiondisclosed by the description or shown in the figures or tablesaccompanying this application are not intended to be limiting, butrather exemplary of the numerous and varied embodiments genericallyencompassed by the invention or equivalents encompassed with respect toany particular element thereof. In addition, the specific description ofa single embodiment or element of the invention may not explicitlydescribe all embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives areimplicitly disclosed by the description and figures.

It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or each stepof a method may be described by an apparatus term or method term. Suchterms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the implicitlybroad coverage to which this invention is entitled. As but one example,it should be understood that all steps of a method may be disclosed asan action, a means for taking that action, or as an element which causesthat action. Similarly, each element of an apparatus may be disclosed asthe physical element or the action which that physical elementfacilitates. As but one example, the disclosure of a “support” should beunderstood to encompass disclosure of the act of “supporting”—whetherexplicitly discussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectivelydisclosure of the act of “supporting”, such a disclosure should beunderstood to encompass disclosure of a “support” and even a “means forsupporting.” Such alternative terms for each element or step are to beunderstood to be explicitly included in the description.

In addition, as to each term used it should be understood that unlessits utilization in this application is inconsistent with suchinterpretation, common dictionary definitions should be understood toincluded in the description for each term as contained in the RandomHouse Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, second edition, each definitionhereby incorporated by reference.

All numeric values herein are assumed to be modified by the term“about”, whether or not explicitly indicated. For the purposes of thepresent invention, ranges may be expressed as from “about” oneparticular value to “about” another particular value. When such a rangeis expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular valueto the other particular value. The recitation of numerical ranges byendpoints includes all the numeric values subsumed within that range. Anumerical range of one to five includes for example the numeric values1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, and so forth. It will be furtherunderstood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant bothin relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the otherendpoint. When a value is expressed as an approximation by use of theantecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular valueforms another embodiment. The term “about” generally refers to a rangeof numeric values that one of skill in the art would consider equivalentto the recited numeric value or having the same function or result.Similarly, the antecedent “substantially” means largely, but not wholly,the same form, manner or degree and the particular element will have arange of configurations as a person of ordinary skill in the art wouldconsider as having the same function or result. When a particularelement is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent“substantially,” it will be understood that the particular element formsanother embodiment.

Moreover, for the purposes of the present invention, the term “a” or“an” entity refers to one or more of that entity unless otherwiselimited. As such, the terms “a” or “an”, “one or more” and “at leastone” can be used interchangeably herein.

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at least: i) eachof the garments herein disclosed and described, ii) the related methodsdisclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicitvariations of each of these devices and methods, iv) those alternativeembodiments which accomplish each of the functions shown, disclosed, ordescribed, v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplisheach of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which isdisclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown asseparate and independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced bythe various systems or components disclosed, viii) the resultingproducts produced by such systems or components, ix) methods andapparatuses substantially as described hereinbefore and with referenceto any of the accompanying examples, x) the various combinations andpermutations of each of the previous elements disclosed.

The background section of this patent application provides a statementof the field of endeavor to which the invention pertains. This sectionmay also incorporate or contain paraphrasing of certain United Statespatents, patent applications, publications, or subject matter of theclaimed invention useful in relating information, problems, or concernsabout the state of technology to which the invention is drawn toward. Itis not intended that any United States patent, patent application,publication, statement or other information cited or incorporated hereinbe interpreted, construed or deemed to be admitted as prior art withrespect to the invention.

The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are herebyincorporated by reference as part of this description of the invention,and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or aportion of such incorporated content of such claims as additionaldescription to support any of or all of the claims or any element orcomponent thereof, and the applicant further expressly reserves theright to move any portion of or all of the incorporated content of suchclaims or any element or component thereof from the description into theclaims or vice-versa as necessary to define the matter for whichprotection is sought by this application or by any subsequentapplication or continuation, division, or continuation-in-partapplication thereof, or to obtain any benefit of, reduction in feespursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws, rules, or regulations ofany country or treaty, and such content incorporated by reference shallsurvive during the entire pendency of this application including anysubsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in-part applicationthereof or any reissue or extension thereon.

Additionally, the claims set forth in this specification, if any, arefurther intended to describe the metes and bounds of a limited number ofthe preferred embodiments of the invention and are not to be construedas the broadest embodiment of the invention or a complete listing ofembodiments of the invention that may be claimed. The applicant does notwaive any right to develop further claims based upon the description setforth above as a part of any continuation, division, orcontinuation-in-part, or similar application.

1. A convertible garment for skin-to-skin care of an infant, said garment comprising: a flexible panel having a panel width disposed between panel first and second ends which removably couple to one another to dispose said panel width about a torso of a wearer to define an interior space between a panel internal surface and a front torso portion of said wearer, said interior space configured to receive an infant; a first support element coupled to said panel proximate a panel first side top portion; and a second support element coupled to said panel proximate a panel second side top portion; said first and second support elements configured to couple to one another to support said panel about said torso of said wearer; wherein in a garment first configuration, said first and second support elements couple to one another about a neck of said wearer; wherein in a garment second configuration, said first and second support elements couple to one another about a shoulder of said wearer.
 2. The garment of claim 1, said panel further comprising a resiliently stretchable panel top edge configured to resiliently stretch about an upper torso portion of said wearer.
 3. The garment of claim 1, said panel further comprising a resiliently stretchable panel bottom edge configured to resiliently stretch about a lower torso portion of said wearer.
 4. The garment of claim 1, further comprising a pair of releasably matable fastener elements coupled one each to panel first and second end portions to facilitate removable coupling of said panel first and second ends.
 5. The garment of claim 4, further comprising a plurality of said pairs of releasably matable fastener elements coupled to said panel first and second end portions in spaced apart relation along corresponding panel first and second end portion lengths to provide a corresponding plurality of fastenable areas along said panel first and second end portion lengths.
 6. The garment of claim 4, wherein said pair of releasably matable fastener elements is configured to provide adjustable removable coupling of said panel first and second ends.
 7. The garment of claim 6, further comprising a plurality of said pairs of releasably matable fastener elements coupled to said panel first and second end portions in spaced apart relation along said panel width to facilitate adjustment of said panel width which disposes about said torso of said wearer.
 8. The garment of claim 4, wherein said first and second support elements are configured as flexible first and second support elements having corresponding flexible first and second support elements lengths disposed between corresponding first and second support element first ends and corresponding first and second support element second ends; wherein said first and second element first ends each couple to said panel proximate corresponding said panel first and second side top portions; wherein said flexible first and second support elements are configured to removably couple to one another along portions of corresponding said flexible first and second support element lengths to support said panel about said torso of said wearer.
 9. The garment of claim 8, wherein said flexible first and second support elements are configured as first and second straps which adjustably removably couple to one another along any portion of corresponding first and second strap lengths distal from corresponding first and second strap first ends by tying.
 10. The garment of claim 4, further comprising at least one slit which communicates between said panel internal surface and a panel external surface.
 11. A method of making a convertible garment for skin-to-skin care of an infant, said method comprising: providing a flexible panel having a panel width disposed between panel first and second ends which removably couple to one another to dispose said panel width about a torso of a wearer to define an interior space between a panel internal surface and a front torso portion of said wearer, said interior space configured to receive an infant; coupling a first support element to said panel proximate a panel first side top portion; and coupling a second support element to said panel proximate a panel second side top portion; said first and second support elements configured to couple to one another to support said panel about said torso of said wearer.
 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising providing said panel with a resiliently stretchable panel top edge configured to resiliently stretch about an upper torso portion of said wearer.
 13. The method of claim 11, further comprising providing said panel with a resiliently stretchable panel bottom edge configured to resiliently stretch about a lower torso portion of said wearer.
 14. The method of claim 11, further comprising coupling a pair of releasably matable fastener elements one each to panel first and second end portions to facilitate removable coupling of said panel first and second ends.
 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising coupling a plurality of said pairs of releasably matable fastener elements to said panel first and second end portions in spaced apart relation along corresponding panel first and second end portion lengths to provide a corresponding plurality of fastenable areas along said panel first and second end portion lengths.
 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising configuring said pair of releasably matable fastener elements to provide adjustable removable coupling of said panel first and second ends.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising coupling a plurality of said pairs of releasably matable fastener elements to said panel first and second end portions in spaced apart relation along said panel width to facilitate adjustment of said panel width which disposes about said torso of said wearer.
 18. The method of claim 14, further comprising: configuring said first and second support elements as flexible first and second support elements having corresponding flexible first and second support elements lengths disposed between corresponding first and second support element first ends and corresponding first and second support element second ends; coupling said first and second element first ends each to said panel proximate corresponding said panel first and second side top portions; and configuring said flexible first and second support elements to removably couple to one another along portions of corresponding said flexible first and second support element lengths to support said panel about said torso of said wearer.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising configuring said flexible first and second support elements as first and second straps which adjustably removably couple to one another along any portion of corresponding first and second strap lengths distal from corresponding first and second strap first ends by tying.
 20. The method of claim 14, further comprising disposing at least one slit in said panel, said slit communicating between said panel internal surface and a panel external surface. 21-28. (canceled) 